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As an adamant latke enthusiast, I find it hard to step back, even during festive gatherings when others suggest I take a break from frying. Some might label me as a perfectionist or a bit of a complainer, but my commitment to crafting the perfect latke is unwavering.
Not everyone shares my fervor for latke preparation, and I understand that the process can leave lingering odors of grease and onions in your home (which might be considered a Hanukkah miracle!). For those who prefer convenience, there are several excellent pre-cooked options available. Deli institutions such as Manny’s Deli and Russ & Daughters offer delicious potato pancakes through Goldbelly, while grocery store freezers hold a few reputable brands as well. To explore the flavors, I invited some colleagues from the Eater team to conduct a taste test of various top selections, complete with applesauce and sour cream.
Note: All latkes were delivered simultaneously, initially stored in the freezer, then thawed in the refrigerator. Although some brands suggested pan or oven reheating, we used a toaster oven for our tasting.
OUR FAVORITES
Russ & Daughters
New York
It’s no surprise that Russ & Daughters secured a top spot on our list. Their latkes boast a generous size and a delightful crunch, releasing a burst of finely shredded potato from within. The balance of ingredients prevents them from falling apart, earning accolades for their texture.
Kenny & Ziggy’s Delicatessen
Houston
Despite challenging shipping conditions for many products, Kenny & Ziggy’s latkes arrived in excellent form. One reviewer described them as the embodiment of a perfect latke. While some found them slightly salty, the seasoning enhanced their robust flavor and crispy texture.
Barney Greengrass
New York
While the appearance of the Barney Greengrass latkes may raise eyebrows—resembling pickled cow tongues—they offer a pleasant contrast with their light, airy filling. The flavors combine an onion essence with a hint of sweetness, complemented by herbal notes.
Zabar’s
New York
Zabar’s latkes made it to our tasting just in time, offering a satisfying crunch and a well-balanced flavor profile. Their potato texture and seasoning were commendable, making them a solid option.
Golden Potato Pancakes
In stores
While the Goldens latkes appear modest in size, they pack an unexpected punch in flavor. With a creamy interior and a crispy coat, they successfully reheated for a delightful taste experience that caught us off guard.
THE REST
Linda’s Gourmet Latkes
Los Angeles
Linda’s latkes dominate the Goldbelly listings, with numerous varieties available. However, the ones we tasted resembled hash browns more than traditional latkes and delivered a somewhat bland flavor that left us wanting more.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen
Ann Arbor, Michigan
The latkes from Zingerman’s presented a greasy appearance, which contributed to a less favorable review. Over-reliance on binders resulted in a texture that felt too soft and uninviting, with a lack of distinct flavor.
Mile End Deli
New York
Mile End’s latkes featured noticeable herb flecks and an unusual hue. However, there were complaints about dryness in the interior, which was further complicated by an oily taste lingering in the mouth afterward.
Attman’s Deli
Baltimore
The latkes from Attman’s were poorly constructed, breaking apart easily and lacking in flavor. Their unappealing taste was compared to that of stale hotel food, which did not leave a good impression.
Manny’s Deli
Chicago
Manny’s latkes were somewhat perplexing, with a texture reminiscent of cornbread rather than the expected potato pancake. Although the flavor was adequate, the unusual consistency detracted significantly from the overall enjoyment.
Trader Joe’s
In stores
Initially, we thought Trader Joe’s latkes were identical to those from Golden, but they quickly proved to be different. Although they included a generous amount of onion, the flavor was dominated by an unpleasant metallic taste, concluding with a sour aftertaste—not ideal for Hanukkah festivities.
Source
www.eater.com